This April, movie lovers can enjoy a diverse lineup of films that span the genres of classic musicals, cult comedies, mind-bending thrillers and family-friendly stop-motion animation. From dancing in the rain to navigating alternate realities, these films promise to entertain, thrill, and captivate in equal measure. Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming screenings at the Cameo Art House Theatre.
Singin’ in the Rain – One Night Only on April 13
Step back in time to the golden age of Hollywood with Singin’ in the Rain (1952), one of the greatest movie musicals of all time. Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, this dazzling comedy stars Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor as they navigate the exciting but challenging transition from silent films to “talkies.” With the backdrop of Hollywood in the 1920s, Singin’ in the Rain has become an iconic exploration of the magic, chaos, and drama that accompanied the birth of synchronized sound in movies.
Gene Kelly’s choreography remains revolutionary, blending classical dance and athleticism with sophisticated storytelling. The seamless integration of its musical numbers with plot progression makes it one of the best examples of how music can shape a film’s narrative. Debbie Reynolds, as the sweet, yet tough, aspiring actress, holds her own amongst the giants of Kelly and O'Connor, making this film a joyful, feel-good experience from start to finish.
Showtime: Sunday, April 13 – 1:30 p.m., Rated G; Runtime: 1hr 43min
The Big Lebowski – April 19 & 20
Celebrate 4/20 weekend with The Big Lebowski (1998), the Coen Brothers’ cult classic that has solidified its place in the annals of stoner comedy. Starring Jeff Bridges as the laid-back Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski, this eccentric film follows a middle-aged slacker whose life gets turned upside down after a case of mistaken identity.
The Big Lebowski is a strange, twisted, yet strangely endearing film. The film’s magic lies in its refusal to adhere to traditional narrative structures, choosing instead to dive into the absurdity of life and letting its characters—particularly The Dude—wander through bizarre, unpredictable situations. Jeff Bridges gives a career-defining performance as The Dude, capturing the essence of an aimless, washed-up man perfectly. His slow-paced delivery, combined with the film's brilliant dialogue and memorable characters (John Goodman’s explosive Walter, in particular), makes The Big Lebowski endlessly quotable.
Showtimes: Saturday, April 19 – 9:30 p.m. & Sunday, April 20 – 4:30 p.m., Rated R; Runtime: 1hr 57min
Donnie Darko – Fourth Friday Fright Night on April 25
For fans of mind-bending cinema, Donnie Darko is a 2001 film that must be experienced. Directed and written by Richard Kelly, this psychological thriller follows troubled teen Donnie (Jake Gyllenhaal) as he begins to have disturbing visions of a mysterious, sinister rabbit named Frank. After surviving a freak accident, Donnie is pulled into a surreal journey that questions the nature of time, fate and existence itself.
Donnie Darko is a film that refuses to be easily categorized. At its core, it’s a coming-of-age story about a young man grappling with mental illness, but it's also a haunting exploration of time travel, alternate realities, and existential dread. Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a powerhouse performance as Donnie, capturing the emotional depth and confusion of a troubled adolescent trying to make sense of the world around him.
Showtime: Friday, April 25 – 9:30 p.m., Rated R; Runtime: 1hr 53min
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit – April 26
For a lighter, family-friendly option, head out for a Saturday Morning Cartoon Matinee featuring Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit from 2005. This delightful stop-motion animated film from Aardman Studios follows the lovable inventor Wallace and his trusty dog Gromit as they try to solve the mystery of a giant rabbit that’s causing chaos in the town’s vegetable gardens. Hired by the charming Lady Tottington (Helena Bonham Carter), Wallace must also compete with the pompous Victor Quartermaine (Ralph Fiennes) for her affections.
Showtime: Saturday, April 26 – 11 a.m., Rated G; Runtime: 1hr 25min